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SSH Key Management & Best Practices


Secure Socket Shell (SSH), also popularly referred to as the Secure Shell, is an exclusive network regulation that leverages public-key cryptography to permit approved users to enter a computer/network or any other device remotely with the aid of SSH key security credentials. Since they are used to navigate through the sensitive information and conduct critical and extremely privileged operations, handling SSH keys with care is as vital as any other confidential credentials.

Although SSH keys are commonly used with Unix and Linux platforms, they are equally popular with windows based application authentications too.

SSH Key Security Authentication Overview


The Secure Shell and the public-key cryptography used by SSH keys are specially devised to implement a guarded and encrypted connection authentication between the user and a remote machine.

SSH design is based on the client-server model and offers an effective way of accessing remote devices through unsecured networks, such as the internet. Admins commonly use the SSH technique for multiple functions, such as:

  • Accessing remote systems or servers for maintenance and support purpose.
  • Managing file transfer across the networked machines 
  • Remotely executing a command
  • Installing system updates and offering support services.

Owing to the improved protection mechanisms of the Secure Socket Shell framework, Telnet, one of the very first remote access protocols for the internet which was in use since the late 1960's, has been replaced entirely by SSH key security mechanisms.

To further strengthen security checks around SSH Keys, you may apply the following best practices.

  • All SSH keys under single active management: The first move towards removing SSH key sprawl and adequately evaluating potential threat is to identify and store all SSH keys under centralised control. 


  • Ensure SSH Keys Are Connected With a Single User: Strive to Link SSH keys to an individual, instead of a joint account that multiple users share. It will provide a more transparent and efficient SSH control.


  • Auditing privileged session activity: In order to fulfil both cyber-security and regulation requirements, any privileged session started with an SSH key security authentication (or other means) should be registered and audited.


To know more about the Secure Socket Shell credentials and security, visit Foxpass now on our official website.

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